The 517 Magazine July 2021 Issue

NOTABLE NEWS | PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM AREA BUSINESSES

B U S I N E S S

A N D

L I F E

CONNECTING FARMERS

with the world KEEPING RURAL AMERICA IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE DISCUSSION

CULTIVATING KINDNESS

July 2021

Okemos flower microfarm is in the business of brightening days

FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITY

Greater Lansing Food Bank keeps residents from going hungry

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publisher’s note

A

Agriculture Drives the 517

s the capital of Michigan and the location where state government is situated, it may be a bit of a mental reflex to immediately think of Greater Lansing as an urban city center.

However, it doesn’t take long driving in any direction from Lansing before the urban and suburban fade away and you’re in the middle of wide-open spaces and golden fields of farming that are only occasionally interrupted by the small city or village.

The 517 is far more rural than urban, and it’s these areas that comprise the spatial majority of our regional community. It can be easy to forget that, even when we have one of the world’s leading scientific agriculture research universities in our backyard.

I remember as a kid watching for the corn to be “knee high by the fourth of July.” There’s not much that tops the fresh sweet corn we can acquire mid-summer.

Agriculture is the economic backbone of any nation. From multi-million-dollar commercial farming operations to small-scale subsistence farming, agriculture not only is the pipeline of our food supply, but it also provides us with clothing and shelter. Agriculture is how we enjoy a higher quality of life.

This edition of 517 Magazine is our agro-issue. We’ll explore a wide range of agriculture-related topics from a microfarm in Okemos to some of the major challenges and roadblocks in terms of infrastructure needs.

Our hardworking farmers deserve to be praised, and perhaps the biggest praise you can provide them is to support them when you can, where you can. We’re in the height of the summer farmers market season, and it’s at these local stands and booths where most people make the connection on a personal level with our agriculture community.

Shop and source local this month — and get a true taste of what the 517 is all about. And, don’t forget the sweet corn. I won’t.

517 Business and Life, Volume 2, Issue 7, July 2021.

Publisher Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz

517 Business and Life (USPS#020-807) is published monthly by M3 Group at 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, Mi 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan.

Managing Editor Mary Gajda mary@m3group.biz

Subscriptions: Subscriptions are available at $22 per year for postage and handling or $38 for two years.

Call (517) 203-3333 or visit 517mag.com to subscribe.

Postmaster: Send address changes to 517 Business and Life, 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Copyright @2021. 517 Business and Life. All rights reserved.

Editorial office: 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. 517mag.com

Creative Visionary Chad Hussle chad@m3group.biz Lead Editor Christopher Nagy Contributors Rich Adams Teece Aronin Metro Melik Brown Kyle Dowling Mary Gajda Erin Hagen Julie Chrisinske Chris Nagy Tedi Parsons Shelby Smith Omar Sofradzija Jack Tany Graphic Designers Kathryn Aspin Emily Hanes Client Strategists Megan Fleming megan@m3group.biz Liz Reno-Hayes liz@m3group.biz Melissa DeMott melissa@m3group.biz John Tripolsky john@m3group.biz

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Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address. Please send to: 517 Magazine, 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933, or email info@517mag.com.

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517 | 7.21

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contents

7/21

13 Connecting Farmers with the World Keeping rural America in the infrastructure discussion

39 Cultivating Kindness Okemos flower microfarm is in the business of brightening days

7.21 | 517

5

business

contents

22

11

AREA SNAPSHOT

17

TRENDS

18

NOTABLE NEWS

21

BIZ TIPS

22

STATE/NATIONAL

26

ON THE RECORD

27

PERSPECTIVES

A Snapshot of Local Business News Affecting the 517 Bountiful Harvest Professional Highlights from the 517 Region Expanding Diversity A Brief Look at State and National News Affecting our Region Beef’s Carbon Hoofprint Marketing Master

lifestyle

30

30

PLACES

32

FAMILY CORNER

34

STYLE

35

FOOD

38

NONPROFIT

A Meander by Murals Soak in the city’s public artworks this summer The Summer Slide and Ways Learning Can Be Fun Dive into Summer Swimsuit season is upon us Best of the 517 Patios Fighting Food Insecurity Greater Lansing Food Bank keeps residents from going hungry

play 46

REASONS TO PLAY

Visit 517living.com for More Lansing-Area Activities

DEPARTMENTS

2 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 52

6

517 | 7.21

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If you are in the market for a new house, being prepared is key. There are several things to do before you complete the purchase.

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Budget for transitional costs.

As you save for a down payment, you should also save for other expenses such as a home inspection and short-term rent should you sell your current house before finding a new home, or if you need to break your apartment lease.

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Ask questions. Ask your real estate agent all of your questions.

You hired them for their expertise and guidance, and understanding the homebuying process is one of the smartest things you can do.

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5 Things to Do Before Buying a Home

By Deidre Davis, MSU Federal Credit Union’s Chief Marketing Officer

Be open to change. While you may start with a “must-have” list, don’t be surprised if you change your mind based on your budget or what is available. You may also need to prioritize the non-negotiables or possibly delay your purchase until you can afford everything you want.

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Don’t stress over the superficial. When you are looking for a new home, keep in

mind much can be changed or fixed to meet your preferences. Don’t let small projects or updates such as an unappealing paint color get in the way of buying a great home.

5.

Address the home inspection.

No house is perfect, and an inspection is important to find small items that need to be fixed or larger issues that could become deal breakers. If you encounter a safety or structural issue, it’s vital to fix the issue or walk away.

MSUFCU offers a wide range of mortgage products, from a First-Time Home Buyer program to conventional or adjustablerate mortgages, as well as home improvement loans and home equity lines of credit. Members can also easily apply for mortgages through the MSUFCU mobile app. For more information, visit msufcu.org/ homeloans.

Deidre Davis is the chief marketing officer at MSU Federal Credit Union. MSUFCU’s headquarters are at 3777 West Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Contact Deidre at deidre.davis@msufcu.org or (517) 333-2424.

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AREA SNAPSHOT p.11 TRENDS p.17 NOTABLE NEWS p.18 BIZ TIPS p.21 STATE/NATIONAL p.22 ON THE RECORD p.26 PERSPECTIVES p.27

A BERRY GOOD TIME Did you know the United States produces more strawberries than anywhere else in the world?

In fact, michigangrown.com says most of the fresh Michigan strawberries were picked by consumers at U-pick operations around the state. The 517 region has plenty of places to pick your own, including Huhn Strawberry Farm at 11262 S. Tallman Road in Eagle and Felzke Farms at 5501 Herbison Road in DeWitt. Sodt’s Berry Farm in Jackson recently announced it will not be doing U-Pick this strawberry season, but will take orders for already picked berries. Pick some berries — it’s a great way to source and support local!

7.21 | 517

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business / AREA SNAPSHOT

A snapshot of local business news affecting the 517 MSU LEADS IN ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE RESEARCH

BY SHELBY SMITH

Michigan State University has been recognized as a global pioneer in environmental antimicrobial resistance research.

The university was ranked among the top 10 institutions in the world for the field in a study by Global Health Research and Policy, a multidisciplinary journal that publishes topic areas and methods addressing global health questions.

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness

and death, according to the World Health Organization.

The field is vital to global health because resistance to antibiotics is growing faster than new antibiotics can be developed.

“The biggest problem is the massive use of antibiotics in food production,” said Dr. James M. Tiedje, founding director for the MSU Center for Microbial Ecology. “This becomes an issue primarily in middle-income countries, where the spread through animal agriculture and aquaculture is high due to desire for better meat and foods. Then, the best way to grow those economically is the use of antibiotics.”

Yet the problem is twofold and not limited to middle-income countries.

“In low-income countries, they tend not to use as many antibiotics, but there is virtually no wastewater treatment, so resistance to antibiotics spreads,” Tiedje said.

The rapid increase in antibiotic resistance then becomes a moral one, and champions in research at MSU like Tiedje are working to promote the prioritization of global environmental and public health. The research can help the public understand the massive impact of these microscopic organisms on our health and that of the world around us.

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business / AREA SNAPSHOT FRUSTRATIONS CONTINUE IN FURNITURE INDUSTRY JACKSON OPENS FIRST DOG PARK

BY TEECE ARONIN

The city of Jackson has gone to the dogs — finally.

After a handful of weeks on construction, the city opened its first dog park. Making use of the existing Beech Tree Park at the corner of North Blackstone and Van Buren streets in downtown Jackson, the fully fenced area has sections for both large and small breeds to roam free any time they wish. “As residential development booms in downtown Jackson, it’s important that we make sure our downtown has the amenities that can help attract future residents,” said Mayor Derek Dobies. “Making sure we have adequate space for our furry friends is actually a pretty big priority, and the private donation we secured to build Betty’s Dog Park couldn’t have come at a better time. This will be a great addition to our community.”

The park is named in honor of Betty Dahlem Desbiens, the Jackson resident who saw the need for a dog park and contributed to its funding.

“Thank you to everyone for helping a dream of mine come true,” Desbiens said at the spring groundbreaking.

Beech Tree Park had been underused since its award-winning beech tree was removed after being struck by lightning. The area is maintained by the Jackson Parks and Recreation Department.

“I am thrilled to see this project come to fruition,” said Danielle Dobies, chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Commission. “It will be a great addition to the roster of amazing parks in the city, creating a space for us to socialize with our furry friends and further drive community engagement.”

JACKSON WATER/SEWER HIKES SHOULD BE MINIMAL

Although the Jackson City Council recently approved hikes in the water and sewer rates for

BY MARY GAJDA residents and businesses, the city said the increases customers can expect to see on bills should be nominal.

A lead service line replacement along with cost-of-living increases and maintenance on the existing system prompted the council vote.

The line replacement project alone is expected to reach $120 million, but Aaron Dimick, the city’s public information officer, said customers shouldn’t be too concerned about sticker shock.

“When we talk about a 12% increase, that does sound like a lot to our residents,” said Dimick. “We know that a lot of people don’t want to pay more for water bills, and we’ve been conscious about not trying to pass this burden on to our residents and business owners. We’ve done different rate studies over the years to determine what the impact would

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517 | 7.21

BY KYLE DOWLING

As consumer spending rises, the furniture industry has seen continued delays due to the disruption of the global supply chain. Shipping networks across the globe have been hard-pressed to keep up with the demand of the consumer, leading to longer wait times.

“Ports remain jammed and empty containers are having trouble making their way back to the small and medium-sized ports, further disrupting availability of goods,” said Samantha Kobe, marketing director at the Lansing-based workplace solutions provider DBI. “Water shipments have gone from 30-day travel times to over 90 days or longer, and both air and water shipments have more than doubled in price since last year.”

Kobe said there is heightened inflationary pressure on core materials — such as wood, steel, corrugated foam and resin — between 5-30% in the last two months, and several items are on their sixth price increase in the last 12 months.

“We do anticipate some leveling of this,” she said. “But a high percentage of the increases will remain in place for the foreseeable future.”

Wayne Coats, co-owner of Pilgrim House Furniture in Okemos, agreed that shipping disruptions have caused some of the frustrations, but he also noted that the ice storms in Texas put foam plants behind on their production.

“It took eight to 10 weeks to get a custom piece of furniture two years ago,” said Coats. “Now it could take up to six months.”

The advice from experts seems to be to start looking at furniture early and plan for extended waiting.

be, and essentially what this breaks down to for our average customer is just an $11 increase per year.”

This issue isn’t unique to Jackson; a state directive will have communities throughout Michigan working to replace lead service lines.

Already having begun the process over the past two years, the recent vote and new funding structure will allow Jackson to ramp up its efforts.

“We have about 30 years to replace all the lead service lines. It is a huge undertaking,” Dimick said.

There is a silver lining. The project will create a lot of infrastructure work for Jackson neighborhoods and businesses.

“We’re going to be replacing a lot of streets, curbs, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots,” Dimick said. “Although this is a huge undertaking, at least there will be some new infrastructure in the city because of that.”

The council’s sewer rate hike is a minimal cost-of-living increase and unrelated to the lead service line project.

FEATURE

CONNECTING FARMERS WITH THE

world KEEPING RURAL AMERICA IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE DISCUSSION

BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA

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It’s hardly a secret that Michigan roads need a fix. But the urgency is more than patching potholes; it’s also about protecting the pathways between the state’s farms and a global agribusiness market that brings more than $100 billion annually to the state.

“We talk a lot about fixing the damn roads in Michigan, and that’s a really important part of this. But there are many other issues at play,” said Chuck Lippstreu, president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association. “It’s just so critical for people in rural America, whether they’re going to school or trying to work in a global economy or just trying to have a solid quality of life.”

Agriculture is the second-largest sector of Michigan’s economy, according to Lippstreu.

“It is critical for our rural communities, but it’s also a driver of jobs and economic opportunities in our largest cities,” he said. “To be successful, agriculture relies on the ability to move products to get that commerce in a global marketplace. If we don’t invest in our roads and rail and bridges and broadband services, our agricultural economy is going to be under pressure and we’re going to see the economic impact of that.”

Needs range from upgrading roads, railways and bridges to improving water and wastewater systems as well as enabling rural broadband and high-speed internet, said Lippstreu. From an economic perspective, that’s critical not only to keep rural workers productive, but to keep them from moving away.

“To be able to call a small town home, you have to have some basic service that you can rely on, from functioning roads and highways to functioning broadband internet, especially now in today’s world. And we’re concerned that if we let the investment fall too far behind in our rural communities, we’re going to continue to see people leave those places,” Lippstreu said. “They’re special places; they’re great places to live. And we need people in small

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FEATURE

REMEMBERING RURAL: CHUCK LIPPSTREU, PRESIDENT OF THE MICHIGAN AGRIBUSINESS ASSOCIATION, IS WORKING TO ENSURE RURAL FARMERS ARE NOT EXCLUDED FROM THE NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE DIALOGUE.

AN AGRIBUSINESS INFRASTRUCTURE WISH LIST towns because we need a strong, reliable and solid workforce in agriculture. And for all of those reasons, we absolutely have to take the opportunity to invest in rural America and rural Michigan.”

The range of jobs fueled by farms goes far beyond the countryside, though.

“It’s not just farmers. It’s not just farm workers,” said Lippstreu. “It’s all the people out at that farm supply/ag retailer in your rural community. It’s people who are on the supply chain for fertilizer, crop inputs and seeds. Truck drivers. People working for short-line railroads who are hugely important for the success of our ag economy. And then an army of professional services provider: CPAs, attorneys and others who help agriculture be successful.

“We have a very clear message for policymakers: We’re in a rural infrastructure crisis. And we need historic investment to address that,” he added. “If we don’t, we run some pretty substantial risks — both from a quality-of-life perspective in rural Michigan, but also from an economic perspective in terms of hampering one of our state’s largest economic drivers.”

Fortunately, business and community leaders in Michigan have been prodding state lawmakers and congressional representatives to take action. Lawmakers in both Lansing and Washington, D.C. have been taking the issue seriously, said Lippstreu. Still, all parties need to make sure infrastructure-related legislation is fairly spread between urban and rural areas.

“Let’s be sure that rural America is not left behind in any sort of historic infrastructure investment,” said Lippstreu.

In a Jan. 28 letter to President Joe Biden, the Rebuild Rural Coalition — a national collaboration of agribusiness advocacy groups including the Michigan AgriBusiness Association, Michigan Bean Shippers, Michigan Farm Bureau and Michigan Soybean Association — expressed its concerns over the state of rural infrastructure that the farm economy counts on to operate. It asked for help in the president’s Build Back Better infrastructure improvement initiative. The coalition requests that any infrastructure programs include: •

•

• • • •

Fixing the quarter of our national road system’s bridges that require significant repair or cannot efficiently handle today’s traffic.

Modernizing many of the nation’s 240 locks and dams along inland waterways that are increasingly obsolete.

Improving rural access to clean water.

Providing quality, affordable housing for rural families.

Expanding broadband to connect rural communities to the outside world.

Enhancing the ability to supply reliable and secure power.

Source: nasda.org/letters-comments-testimony/ rural-infrastructure-letter-to-president-biden 7.21 | 517

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ED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP EED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HEL ED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP NEED DS U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP? ON N P L A N N I N G HELP EDSSUUCCCCEE SS SS IIO PU LA DS C CNEN SSI N I OGN P L A N N I N G HELP? HELP? ED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP D S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP? ED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP EED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP ED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP EED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP ED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HELP CONNECTING WITH BUSINESS. NEED S U C COUR E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HEL STRENGTHENING WORKFORCE. NEED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HE NEED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HEL NEED S U C C E SS I O N P L A N N I N G HE camw.org | 1-800-285-WORK

Capital Area Michigan Works! is a proud partner of the American Job Center network. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this piece will be made available in an alternative format upon request to Capital Area Michigan Works! Relay Center. Call 711 or 844-578-6563 (Voice and TDD). Funding for Capital Area Michigan Works! is received in part from the U.S. Department of Labor and the State of Michigan. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Center.

business / TRENDS

BOUNTIFUL HARVEST Michigan hosts numerous sectors of agriculture Those of a certain age may remember the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s public service announcement campaign featuring “Farmer Brown.” The banjo-plucking puppet reminded viewers of the wide diversity in the farming community by singing, “On the farm we grow the food that’s everything you need to eat.

It’s a fruit, a veg, a bread, a milk, a cheese, a bean, a meat.” Here’s a look at a few of the many agriculture sectors in Michigan.

CROPS This large tent includes any and all varieties of crops that are grown for domestic and commercial purposes, from vegetables to fruit crops and cereal crops. Michigan ranks first in the nation for tart cherry production and fourth for sweet cherries.

Michigan also tops the U.S. for production of dry black beans, cranberry beans and small red beans.

Tennessee-based Bush’s Beans even buys beans from Michigan. The state is also the leading producer of potatoes for potato chip production and is No. 1 in asparagus production and cucumbers for pickling.

DAIRY Dairy farming is a class of agriculture for long-term production of milk, which is processed on the farm or at a dairy plant for eventual sale. Roughly 97% of Michigan’s dairy farms are family owned, many by multiple generations of the same family. The state has over 1,200 dairy farm families that care for over 424,000 cows. The average dairy herd

in Michigan has just over 300 cows.

In 2019, Michigan ranked sixth in milk production in the United States, and dairy cows in Michigan produced 11.4 billion pounds of milk.

LIVESTOCK Livestock is commonly defined as domesticated animals raised in an agricultural setting to produce labor and commodities such as meat, fur, leather and wool.

The USDA classifies pork, veal, beef and lamb as livestock and all livestock as red meat. Poultry and fish are not included in the category. In 2019, there were a total of 1.15 million head of cattle in Michigan, and beef cattle had 108,000 cows and 25,000 replacement heifers. There are about 12,000 farms with beef and dairy cattle in Michigan.

The economic impact of cattle in Michigan totals $541 million.

FISHERIES Fish farming involves raising fish commercially in tanks or enclosures such as fish ponds, usually for food. A facility that releases juvenile fish into

the wild for recreational fishing or to supplement a species’ natural numbers is generally referred to as a fish hatchery. Built in 1901, Harrietta State Fish Hatchery is the oldest running facility of its kind in Michigan.

It annually produces approximately 1.2 million brown and rainbow trout to be stocked in streams, inland lakes, rivers and the Great Lakes.

FORESTRY A tree farm is a privately owned forest managed for timber production.

The term also is used to refer to tree plantations, tree nurseries and Christmas tree farms. Michigan supplies nearly 2 million Christmas trees annually to the national market.

Michigan has approximately 42,000 acres in commercial Christmas tree production. The state boasts an annual farm gate value of more than $1.3 million in sales of wreaths, cut boughs, garland and other cut greens. For every Christmas tree harvested, Michigan Christmas tree farmers plant three new trees for future harvests.

Sources michigan.org/article/trip-idea/michigan-agriculture-facts-might-not-have-known, milkmeansmore.org/milk-local/michigan-dairy-facts/, mibeef. org/raising-beef/michigan-cattle, michigan.gov/documents/dnr/Hatchery_Passport_Program_-_document_-_FINAL_571440_7.pdf and michiganada.org/ michigan-christmas-tree-facts/#:~:text=Our%20state%20has%20approximately%2042%2C000,three%20new%20trees%20for%20future.

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business / NOTABLE NEWS

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 517 REGION Each will receive $5,000 toward their continued education.

The fund, started in 2019, is open to volunteers or former clients of Ele’s Place, a center for grieving children and their families.

The fund honors Jesse Melot, who served as an Ele’s Place volunteer for many years prior to his untimely death at age 37 in 2018.

“While the committee was impressed by all four of this year’s finalists, members were particularly struck by Brigette’s long commitment to volunteering at Ele’s Place and her career passion and Lindsay’s efforts to balance working as a first-generation college student,” said Derek Melot, chair of the committee. “Both exemplify the qualities that made Jesse Melot the special person he was to so many people in our community.”

Sparty and Jesse Melot

Two Ele’s Place Volunteers Win Scholarships The Jesse Melot Scholarship Fund (JMSF) and Ele’s Place-Capital Region are proud to announce the two recipients of 2021 scholarships for the 2021-22 academic year.

Brigette Thornes and Lindsay Simon were selected by the fund’s Scholarship Committee after interviews with four finalists this spring.

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517 | 7.21

Peckham Names VP of Manufacturing Peckham has named Brett Linton as its new vice president of manufacturing. Linton began his appointment in June and joined Peckham’s leadership team as the head of its growing apparel manufacturing division.

“Brett brings a highly motivated, experienced and transformative approach to manufacturing operations,” said Lisa Webb Sharpe, chief operating officer. “We are looking forward to him sharing his deep and diverse knowledge and skill set to empower

and engage our staff and those we serve to continue to deliver high-quality products and solutions to customers.”

Linton will be responsible for overseeing the strategy and business operations of Peckham’s manufacturing line of business.

Peckham is a leading apparel manufacturer with more than 30 years of experience providing complete apparel solutions to a variety of government agencies and commercial clients.

Ele’s Place Announces Board Member Ele’s Place Capital Region appointed Jennifer Needham as a new community board member.

Needham is the chief financial officer of the 4100 Group, a subsidiary of Delta Dental of Michigan and Delta Dental of Ohio.

“I am happy and honored to be able to serve on the board of Ele’s Place,” Needham said. “The impact Ele’s Place has had, and continues to have, on children’s lives is truly amazing. They fulfill their mission every day so that children and teens do not grieve alone.

I’m inspired by the stories people share of their time spent at Ele’s Place and am grateful these services are available in our community.”

Ingham Health Department Receives Vaccine Funding The Ingham County Health Department

it subm

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n your

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was named among 10 health departments in the nation to receive funding to support local efforts to maintain and increase immunization coverage levels of routinely recommended vaccines including influenza, as well as protect vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The funding comes from the National Association of County and City Health Officials with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Immunization Services Division. Each health department was eligible to receive up to $25,000.

The project is designed to identify needs of local health departments to reach and protect at-risk or vulnerable populations and will include collaboration and coordination with partners at the national, state and local level to provide capacity building and technical assistance, training, information sharing, and material development to strengthen public health immunization strategies.

CASE Named Outstanding Credit Union of the Year CASE Credit Union was named an Outstanding Credit Union of the Year by the Michigan Credit Union League.

The award was announced during the 2021 joint awards ceremony the league hosts with the Michigan Credit Union Foundation.

The Outstanding Credit Union of the Year recognizes a credit union for outstanding contributions with member services and community engagement. CASE Credit Union took top honors for a mediumsized asset.

“We are humbled yet proud to receive this award,” said Jeffrey Benson, president and CEO of CASE Credit Union. “CASE’s main focus is assisting members to achieve

financial success by providing products and services that address all areas of their lives. In addition, we take great pride in the numerous community partnerships we have formed through our philanthropic and outreach endeavors.”

MCUL and MCUF award winners will be formally honored at MCUL’s 2021 Annual Convention and Exposition in Traverse City this August.

Jeffrey Benson

CASE Credit Union Donates to The Firecracker Foundation As part of its community outreach and giving efforts, CASE Credit Union recently presented The Firecracker Foundation with a check for $5,158. The funds were raised by credit union employees throughout the first quarter of 2021.

The Firecracker Foundation provides holistic healing services to youth and families impacted by sexual violence throughout the

Greater Lansing region by offering highquality, trauma-informed mental health services facilitated by trained professionals.

“The credit union philosophy is ‘People helping people,’ and at CASE we strive to assist in our community wherever it is needed,” said Jeffrey Benson, president and CEO of CASE Credit Union. “Our employees have a great passion for giving back to our community, and seeing how much our donation impacts each charity is an amazing feeling.

Having the credit union’s roots in education, the health, safety and development of children is particularly close to our hearts at CASE — and the work The Firecracker Foundation does is of infinite value.”

Chamber Names Award Winners The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce announced Joan Nelson of the Allen Neighborhood Center as the winner of the Community Service Award, Public Sector Consultants as the recipient of the Outstanding Small Business Award and Quality Dairy as this year’s Legacy Award winner.

Nelson is the founder and executive director of the Allen Neighborhood Center, a 22-year-old hub for comprehensive and integrative community development located in Lansing’s Eastside neighborhood. Nelson oversees programs focused on health, food security/access, youth development, entrepreneurism and job skill training, commercial corridor revitalization and neighborhood capacity-building.

Public Sector Consultants is an independent public policy consulting firm based in Lansing with a mission to improve the quality of life for residents of Michigan and beyond. The company achieves that through the development and implementation of innovative, actionable public policies.

business / NOTABLE NEWS

s new your t i m M CO sub

AG.

517M

For 85 years, Quality Dairy has been an iconic brand in the Greater Lansing region.

Quality Dairy was founded in 1936 by Gregory and Paulin Martin and Harvey and Mildred Mack for an initial investment of $600.

McLaren Recognized with Safety Grade McLaren Greater Lansing received an “A” grade in the spring 2021 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing McLaren Greater Lansing’s achievements protecting patients from errors, injuries, accidents and infections. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety.

“We are incredibly proud of our health care heroes who put in the hard work every day to ensure that we are always providing high-quality care to our patients,” said Kirk Ray, president and CEO of McLaren Greater Lansing. “This recognition is reflective of many initiatives that have been put in place to build upon our already existing high-quality patient care focus.”

ACEC/M Elects New President, Board The American Council of Engineering Cos./ Michigan announced Christopher Cook as its 2021-2022 Christopher Cook president. Cook has been the president of Abonmarche Consultants for the past 15 years and has been with the company for 28 years.

In addition to Cook, other ACEC/M officers include President-Elect Jayson Nault of

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Tetra Tech in Brighton, Treasurer Jon Kramer of OHM Advisors in Livonia, National Director Amy Trahey of Great Lakes Engineering Group in Lansing and Past-President Jack Wheatley of ROWE Professional Services Co. in Flint.

The 2021-2022 board of directors includes Barbara Arens of Cincar Consulting Group in Detroit, Richard Chelotti of Bergmann Associates in Lansing, Chuck Gemayel of SME in Plymouth and Connie Houk of Prein & Newhof in Cadillac.

Stiffler Named to Ingham Health Plan Board The Ingham Health Plan Corp. named Kathleen Stiffler to its board of directors.

Stiffler is a senior health policy adviser and executive director of the Michigan Health Policy Forum at the Michigan State University Institute for Health Policy.

IHP is a nonprofit that provides access to basic medical and dental care for low-income, uninsured Ingham County residents.

WILX Taps Schram as News Director Longtime broadcast professional Mike Schram was named as the news director for WILX-TV 10.

After graduating from Michigan State University’s School of Journalism, Schram started his career as a newscast producer in Lansing. He then spent several years at WJRTTV ABC12 in Flint, before returning to Lansing as an assistant news director for five years.

From there he served at stations in Rochester, Minnesota; Flint; and Duluth, Minnesota.

Burgdorf’s Takes Wins in International Competition Burgdorf’s Winery, 5635 Showman Road in Haslett, won best of show dessert, best of

class and double gold on its 2016 Vidal Blanc Icewine at the 2021 International Women’s Wine Competition in Sonoma, California. In addition, the winery’s 2018 Marquette Reserve barrel-aged red wine and Purrrr-fection dessert wine won gold.

Burgdorf’s Winery produces awardwinning, artisan wines on-site from select, Michigan-grown grapes and other fruits. It has a tasting room and gift shop open year-round.

Kortas, Twohig Join Triterra Triterra, a Lansingbased environmental consulting firm, announced the addition of Madison Kortas as a geologist and Taylor Twohig as an environmental Madison Kortas scientist.

Kortas conducts field inspections/ sampling to determine the presence of asbestos, mold and lead. Her responsibilities include field activities completing Taylor Twohig subsurface investigations, including borehole logging and soil/ groundwater sampling.

Twohig’s work focuses on environmental due-diligence services. She conducts environmental site assessments, field assignments, data analysis and technical report preparation. She understands regulatory requirements and considerations necessary for environmental due-diligence projects.

business / BIZ TIPS

EXPANDING DIVERSITY Going Beyond the City Limits

BY TEDI PARSONS, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE PROFESSIONALS FORUM LLC

Over the past year and a half, we have seen companies around the United States continue to enhance and grow their diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, but are we missing a large population of those impacted by DEI? A lot of focus is put on urban centers where we work, live and play, but is the representation of diversity missing for those in the rural or outlying areas?

For many who call rural areas home, they may not be exposed to the many different racial, cultural and ethnic backgrounds that those in the bigger city experience.

As a long-term diversity practitioner, I am often asked, “How can we bring more diversity to our neck of the woods?” First, we must understand what diversity, equity and inclusion is and what is needed to create a truly welcoming and inclusive culture. Some believe that many small, rural cities, townships and villages are made up of a homogeneous group of people who are close-minded and do not welcome others who do not look, talk or act like them. This mindset can be dangerous and derail DEI efforts. Starting with community conversations centered on DEI is a great way to begin the process of enlarging the circle of inclusion and

NO MATTER WHERE WE LIVE, LET’S CREATE COMMUNITIES WHERE EVERYONE CAN CELEBRATE THEIR DIFFERENCES, PROSPER, GROW AND SUCCEED

changing outside perceptions. Working together, come up with some strategies and different ways you can change the culture, and outside view, of your rural community.

It’s important to remember that everyone wants to live in a community where they are welcomed, accepted and have a sense of belonging. This includes access to affordable housing.

“Our built environments should mirror the rich tapestry of diversity of all our communities. As developers or land planners, our work should focus on embracing equity and inclusion, ensuring there is affordable housing also available in rural areas,” said Gina PonsSchultz, vice president of operations at T.A. Forsberg Inc. “Everybody deserves a place to call home, where they can live, celebrate and embrace their differences.”

Whether you are an urban dweller or live in a rural area, our top priority should be to strive for open-mindedness, checking our biases and welcoming others no matter where they are on their journey. No matter where we live, let’s create communities where everyone can celebrate their differences, prosper, grow and succeed.

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business / STATE/NATIONAL

A BRIEF LOOK AT STATE AND NATIONAL NEWS AFFECTING OUR REGION

DESPITE PANDEMIC CHALLENGES, MICHIGAN FOOD, AGRICULTURE EXPORTS GREW IN 2020

BY MARY GAJDA

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The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly caused challenges and uncertainties in supply chains over the last 16 months, but there is good news. According to officials at the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, exports in Michigan’s agricultural field saw considerable growth in 2020. The U.S. Census Bureau reported Michigan’s agriculture exports totaled $2.16 billion in 2020, an 18.7% increase from 2019.

Substantial increases in dairy products, soybeans, sugar beet byproducts and wheat byproducts were seen in 2020, with Canada and Mexico remaining Michigan’s top export markets.

“I think this really speaks to the strength, resilience and global demand for Michigan’s highquality foods,” said MDARD Director Gary McDowell. “Last year was a difficult time for people, communities and businesses, so it’s reassuring when we receive positive news like this, especially for an industry that supports so many families and rural areas.”

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer agreed, praising the sacrifices Michigan’s farmers made to keep forward momentum.

“Their hard work and grit feeds millions of families worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in rural communities across Michigan,” said Whitmer.

The boom is a welcome increase on the heels of a year and a half of uncertainty — but better than that, the numbers are at their best in years.

“Michigan’s food and agriculture export numbers haven’t been this high since 2014,” said Jamie Zmitko-Somers, director of MDARD’s agriculture development division. “Across the state, foods were harvested, processed and delivered right on time. This definitely played a role in the success of our exports.”

INVASIVE SPECIES COST MICHIGAN BUSINESSES

UNVACCINATED MAY STILL NEED MASKS AT WORK

BY RICH ADAMS

BY MARY GAJDA

Gypsy moth. Emerald ash borer. Zebra mussel.

Those are a few of the invasive species most Michiganders know by name. But there are many more, such as the chestnut gall wasp, spotted lanternfly and mute swan.

Invasive plants are especially a problem.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, damage caused by invasive tree and plant pests, coupled with the cost of control and eradication efforts, can reach $40 billion annually.

Rob Miller, invasive species specialist with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said damaging flora and fauna typically get help on their journeys to Michigan.

“Most pests don’t make it very far on their own,” Miller said. “Some non-native, exotic pests made it to the United States on goods and materials from other countries, or even on the ships, planes and trains that transport them. Once here, plant pests can be unintentionally moved to new areas by hitching rides on outdoor gear, vehicles and untreated firewood.”

One weed found late last year in Calhoun County is mile-a-minute weed, an aggressive annual that threatens to smother trees in orchards and Christmas tree farms. It can grow 25 feet in six to eight weeks, according to MDARD. Diana Bennett, whose family operates the Red Barn Tree Farm in Beaverton, said she has not heard of any damage caused by mile-a-minute weed in Michigan.

“I haven’t heard of that from any of our fellow growers, and we talk back and forth on social media about what they’re dealing with,” she said. “But I will definitely check in with them just in case we end up having an issue.”

For more than a year, the issue of masks has been a topic of controversy, and now that controversy may have a new front in the workplace.

While cases are dropping and businesses are allowed to bring back employees from their home offices, business owners are taking getting back to work seriously.

They can hardly rely on the honor system when it comes to employees and COVID-19 vaccinations as it relates to mask wearing in the office. But are they allowed to ask?

The short answer is yes. According to Sean Egan, Michigan director of COVID-19 workplace safety for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, “businesses are allowed to ask employees for a copy of their vaccination card.” Egan’s statement came in a recent Q&A with business owners.

He also spoke during a virtual town hall meeting with the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Do employees have to show their vaccination card? Not necessarily. But by not showing it, they may be required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing or work from home.

According to information released by Michigan Occupational Health and Safety Administration within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, “since March 2020, employers have reported 61 worker deaths from COVID-19 in Michigan and 173 in-patient hospitalizations for COVID-19 potentially linked to workplace exposure to SARS-CoV-2. MIOSHA has received over 15,000 complaints from employees alleging uncontrolled COVID-19 hazards in the workplace and 580 referrals from local government, including local health departments, indicating that businesses were not taking all the necessary measures to protect their employees from SARS-CoV-2 infection.”

In short, it’s a complicated scenario. But there are rules that come from the state, not just an employer. Patience, flexibility and education will be key heading into late summer. Businesses have a tremendous amount of work to do in order to comply with the standards set by the state.

“By and large, the science on how this does spread and knowing socially distancing and these coverings are so important … has not changed during this crisis,” Egan said in the town hall. “That’s going to be critical to making sure we keep this economy open.”

Guidelines that focus on required practices for businesses are available at michigan.gov/covidworkplacesaftey.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

Tales of Summer Fun Your summer story wouldn’t be complete without the library!

Check out these free services and events.

Summer Reading Challenge

Come StoryWalk® with Us

Take & Make Kits

Library of Things

This summer’s theme is animals as we challenge you to read and do fun activities. All ages are welcome–babies, kids, teens and adults. Just track your reading time to collect points for prizes.

Everyone who participates will be eligible for great prize drawings too! The challenge runs through Aug. 7—sign up now at cadl.org/summer.

Our branches are fully stocked with hands-on kits to keep you busy at home. Stuff to build, seeds to plant, crafts to create—free for all ages while supplies last! Call any CADL branch for current availability, or find a complete list for all branches at cadl.org/onrequest.

Located at parks and trails across Ingham County, these walking paths are lined with signposts featuring the pages of children’s books. They encourage families to read a story and do fun outdoor activities together. We currently offer StoryWalks at 12 different locations. Find a list at cadl.org/storywalk.

Summer just got more fun with the return of our Library of Things! Along with its sidekick, Library of Things Jr., this collection is chockfull of items like lawn games, telescopes, robot kits, metal detectors and much more. Browse the list and place holds at cadl.org/things.

*Zoo in Your Neighborhood

Wednesday, July 14 • 10:30 AM CADL Aurelius (517-628-3743) Wednesday, July 21 • 10 AM CADL Williamston (517-655-1191) Staff from Potter Park Zoo will visit two of our branches to share artifacts and interesting stories about zoo animals. No live animals will be present.

Held outdoors. *Registration is required; call the library or visit cadl.org/events.

CADL Tales TV

Wednesdays in July • 9:30 AM Tune in to WLAJTV 53 for new episodes of our popular storytime TV show. Guests include magician Cameron Zvara, storyteller Miss Audrey, and our friends from the Harris Nature Center.

Watch CADL Tales any time on the WILX App and WILX.com!

*Movies in the Park

Fridays, July 9, July 23 & Aug. 13 Approximately 9:30 PM We’ve teamed up with Lansing Parks and Recreation for a series of PG-rated movies held on the lawn at Foster Community Center. Free popcorn while supplies last! Bring a blanket or low chair. *Registration is required; call 517-485-5185 or visit cadl.org/events.

*Berries & Pies, Oh My!

Part of our Michigan Tales series for adults, this virtual presentation demonstrates how to prepare, store and preserve Michigan’s summer fruits safely, including jams and jellies. Presented by MSU Extension’s Joyce McGarry. *Registration is required; call 517-367-6312 or visit cadl.org/events.

*Llamas at the Library

Saturday, July 10 • 1 PM CADL Downtown Lansing (517-367-6363) Meet and learn about live llamas, presented by Corky DuBois of the Michigan Llama Association.

Get a llama-themed Take & Make craft, too! Held outdoors. *Registration is required; call the library or visit cadl.org/events.

Many more free events and services are available at our 13 branches. Find details at cadl.org.

business / ON THE RECORD

BEEF’S CARBON HOOFPRINT

THERE’S THE BEEF: WHITNEY BELPREZ IS IN HER NINTH SEASON AT TWO SPARROWS FARM AND DAIRY, A GRASS-BASED FARM IN EATON RAPIDS.

BRINGING A COMPLICATED CONVERSATION TO THE TABLE

BY MARY GAJDA

Whitney Belprez and her husband, Dan are on their ninth season of farming. Two Sparrows Farm and Dairy, a grass-based farm in Eaton Rapids, produces fresh milk, grass-fed beef and pastured pork.

Not only have farms taken a bit of a hit because of the coronavirus pandemic due to supply-and-demand issues, but the future of the beef industry is in question. Take a recent shift by Epicurious, which announced it will cease publishing new recipes that include beef.

Increasingly, restaurants are beginning to pull beef from the menu.

That’s very serious, considering that meat consumption nears 225 pounds per person annually, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Why is beef a concern? It’s a great big carbon footprint issue.

Belprez isn’t denying there is a problem.

“When we talk about agriculture’s role in climate change, I think people want a really clear-cut answer,” Belprez said. “Overall, when you have restaurants going vegan and not sourcing beef, it’s overly simplistic.

There’s a more complicated conversation to have.”

Belprez shares the goal of reversing climate change, especially as a farmer utilizing sustainable practices.

“As a producer, we know the meat alternatives used include plant-based and lab-grown meats. They are almost always based on monocultures,” Belprez said. “Monocultures are a single crop planted in a very large area with no biodiversity. These crops rely on large

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machinery, heavy fuel use, tilling and chemical sprays. There is little difference between beef and meat alternatives when we look at the overuse of chemicals, reliance on fossil fuels and soil degradation.

“It’s entirely true that we can’t address climate change without addressing agriculture, but to single out and blame beef is overly simplistic,” Belprez said. “We can produce carbon-neutral or even carbon-positive beef if we use the right practices.”

Belprez gives a nod to Michigan State University researchers and outreach specialists who are working to increase sustainable beef practices such as rotationally grazing grasslands.

“This system of grassland, we can mimic that in agriculture. We can use perennial grasses, frequently move livestock. … We can do this and allow photosynthesis to draw carbon back into the soil from the atmosphere to reverse climate change,” Belprez said.

“The question shouldn’t be if we need to remove meat from our diets.

We need to eat less meat, yes, and we need to eat better meat,” she added.

“Meat that is better for the environment and better for our bodies.”

For more information on Two Sparrows Farm and Dairy, visit twosparrowsfarm.com.

business / PERSPECTIVES PERSPECTIVE

MARKETING MASTER A Q&A WITH TOM CAREY, MANAGER FOR THE MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP FARMERS MARKET

BY SHELBY SMITH PHOTO PROVIDED BY MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP

Q& A

How does the Meridian Township Farmers Market engage with the community?

We create a safe, easy and accessible space for local farmers and entrepreneurs to do business year-round. For customers, we bring together a broad variety of vendors with different products that are local both in craftsmanship and production. We build a space where these folks can meet, share ideas and purchase things from one another, which I think creates a sense of community.

We have between 2,500 and 3,000 people come through the market each week with around 60 vendors. It’s a very dynamic place where a wide variety of the things people want and need can be found.

someone who makes wooden bowls and another with cutting boards. We wanted to carve out a niche that contributed to the food community while also providing local artisans a place at the table, as it were.

What does the process of choosing vendors look like?

One of the first criteria is if the product is unique, new or desirable. Are they bringing a product we already have a lot of? I’d much rather make a few vendors happy and go home having sold most of their stuff than saying yes to everyone. Trying to find that balance is a hard thing we hone over time. Then we ask: Is it local? How local? Our priority is the Greater Lansing-area and Michigan vendors.

Does the market change seasonally?

From May to October, we limit our offerings to those related strictly to food. This is a tradition of the market, now in its 47th year, to really emphasize the seasonal food production in the area. We carry on with this tradition, and I think it’s valuable so when people come to the market, they do so to support the farmers.

Does the market go beyond food?

For a number of years, we’ve had people who sharpen knives and sell soap, yet still called ourselves a food-only market. I wanted to identify some pieces that were food-related and made sense to be included. So, we created an additional category for services or craftsman products related to the serving, cooking or processing of food. Now we have

What’s on the horizon for the market this summer?

Our Wednesday market is starting July 7, lasting likely through October, which is open to a much wider range of vendors and artisans selling all sorts of wares. We also have an exciting new change this year with a lineup of musical guests set to perform. We’re lining up food trucks for each week and planning fun, family activities.

The market will be open 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., with music 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. where folks in the community can come out and enjoy.

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We will put you FIRST. Right here at home, we are able to serve you - one community member to another. We offer a variety of products and services to meet your banking needs.

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lifestyle

PLACES p.30 FAMILY CORNER p.32 STYLE p.34 FOOD p.35 NONPROFIT p.38

SPREAD YOUR FARMING FEATHERS When not giving wagon rides to the pumpkin patch in the fall or giving kids the full Santa Claus experience in the winter, Peacock Road Family Farm, 11854 Peacock Road in Laingsburg. is open for all sorts of events and gatherings.

It’s a great farm to visit anytime of the year. For other great farms to visit or information about farm shares, roadside stands or U-pick farms, visit michiganfarmfun.com.

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lifestyle / PLACES Do your best troll stroll to the Under the Bridge project on Michigan Avenue under U.S. 127 to check out Brian Whitfield’s murals. This mural is one of four Whitfield painted for the project.

Whitfield is also responsible for the mural behind the Capital City Market in downtown Lansing.

A MEANDER BY MURALS

SOAK IN THE CITY’S PUBLIC ARTWORKS THIS SUMMER PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY METRO MELIK

There is something incredibly spiritually satisfying about outdoor art. Not only does it help define the character of a community and reach out to touch the souls and minds of passersby, but it’s almost like an optic offering of enjoyment to residents and visitors on behalf of the creator.

Lansing has long been a #MIArtCity. Now with warmer weather upon us, here is your challenge: Take a long walk or bike ride and enjoy the art that has been provided to us by talented artists and muralists.

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t ent a cont more G.COM A 517M

fun fact MURALS ARE TYPICALLY INSPIRED

BY SOCIAL ISSUES, POLITICS, HISTORICAL EVENTS, THE FOUR SEASONS AND RELIGION. WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO CREATE?

The building at 2722 E. Michigan Ave. in Lansing houses the popular People’s Kitchen Restaurant as well as a flexible shared office space called the Hive. Artist Kevin Burdick created a bit of a buzz by helping bring the Hive to life. See more of his work at

instagram.com/kevscraps14/ or scrapdesigns.com.

Find this mural by Lansingbased artist Kelly Boyle, commissioned by Meridian Township, at the entrance to the Meridian Large Dog Park at 1990 Central Park Drive in Okemos.

The Hub building at the corner of Grand River Avenue and Bogue Street in East Lansing has a colorful mural created by artist

DON’T MISS ARTPATH 2021 The Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center has partnered with the city of Lansing for ArtPath 2021: Public Art on the Lansing River Trail. You’ll find some amazing artwork along the trail from REO Town to Old Town. Read more about it at lansingartgallery.org/artpath/ and watch our website at 517mag.com for more photos.

Joe Miller. He can be found on Instagram @ thejoemiller.

We could take up an entire magazine with murals in the area.

But you need to see them for yourself. Pack up the family and take a meander through the area’s nooks and crannies, parks and trails and see some amazing art free of charge.

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lifestyle / FAMILY CORNER

THE SUMMER SLIDE AND WAYS LEARNING CAN BE FUN

BY JULIE CHRISINSKE, HEAD LIBRARIAN AT CAPITAL AREA DISTRICT LIBRARIES’ WILLIAMSTON BRANCH

As we close summer and begin a new school year, the kids may be itching for something to do to keep them busy these final weeks. They may also have forgotten what they learned in previous months (the summer slide) and need some reminders. The really great thing is they can take a trip to their local library and give their brains a workout in a fun way.

For many people, when they think of the library, they think of picture books and storytimes or book clubs and bestsellers — probably not borescopes, metal detectors or sewing machines.

In 2016, Capital Area District Libraries challenged expectations of what could be

borrowed from the library by creating a Library of Things. The LoT was received enthusiastically by members and expanded quickly as usage skyrocketed. Now the collection has evolved to include a special Library of Things Junior for youth cardholders.

The LoT service supports lifelong learning and imagination. For example, STEM kits and coding activity sets encourage early scientific exploration, while microscopes and telescopes enhance appreciation for nature.

Story Cubes and Simple Words Learning Locks support early literacy concepts. Lawn games and board games provide family entertainment. The collection of iPads,

Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hotspots provide valuable lifelines for students and other community members, a service that turned out to be critical over the past year.

Students can restart learning with some new items including the new GoPro Hero 9, a 2.25-inch button maker and Keva Planks building sets. Or they can take advantage of Potter Park Zoo passes or a Michigan Activity Pass that offers free or discounted admission (plus other exclusive offers) at hundreds of Michigan state parks, campgrounds, museums, art centers and recreational areas.

Check out the LoT at cadl.org/things.

cool pets KEEP YOUR PETS COOL We’re in the dog days of summer. With sweltering heat comes danger of keeping your pets outside. Please keep pets indoors with limited time outside in the hot sun. If you must keep them outside, provide adequate shelter from the heat and the elements. Keep clean, fresh water in a bowl and watch for signs of heat stroke and dehydration. Your pets are counting on you to stay cool.

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recipe

FUN AND FRUITY SUMMER POPSICLES WHAT YOU NEED: POPSICLE MOLD (IF YOU DON’T HAVE A MOLD, SMALL DIXIE CUPS AND POPSICLE STICKS WILL DO.) FRESH OR FROZEN FRUIT, CHOPPED FRUIT JUICE (WE USED LIGHT APPLE JUICE, BUT YOU CAN USE LEMONADE OR ANY OTHER TASTY BEVERAGE.) WHAT TO DO: SIMPLY ADD CHOPPED FRUIT TO YOUR POPSICLE MOLD AND FILL WITH JUICE. FREEZE FOR AT LEAST SIX HOURS AND ENJOY.

craft idea MINI FIRE PIT FOR TABLETOP S’MORES DON’T HAVE FIREWOOD ON HAND OR SIMPLY DON’T WANT TO GO THROUGH ALL THAT BOTHER FOR JUST A COUPLE OF S’MORES? THIS DIY FIREPIT IS SIMPLE, BUT ONLY USE IT OUTSIDE AND WITH ADULT SUPERVISION.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Terra cotta pot, unglazed • Aluminum foil, heavy duty • Charcoal • Lighter WHAT TO DO: Line the terra cot pot with foil, add charcoal and light. While you’re letting your charcoal burn down just a bit, grab your s’mores materials. When the coals are ready, toast that marshmallow and ready, set, we want s’more!

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lifestyle / STYLE

DIVE INTO SUMMER SWIMSUIT SEASON IS UPON US

BY ERIN HAGEN

S

pring may be when Michigan blooms, but July is when the fruits of all the state has to offer are ripe for harvest.

July is my favorite month to be a Michigander. For me, it’s the time when Michigan shines with beautiful skies and sunsets, warm lake waters, the smell of grills and campfires, and an exciting energy that is palpable.

It’s the one month of the year where I wake up and put on a swimsuit and coverup — and that’s my outfit of the day, aka #OOTD. So it seems fitting to talk about swimwear for this issue of 517 Magazine.

The idea of swimsuit shopping for most people, myself included, can be an anxiety-invoking event, but it doesn’t have to be. I recently discovered Prime Wardrobe is offered to Amazon Prime members. This service is like a personal shopping experience. It allows you to select up to eight items they send to you

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free, and you pay for only what you keep. You can order up to eight swimsuits to try in the privacy and lighting of your own home.

Now that we’ve explored a new buying option, here are some trends to be on the lookout for. For those of us that prefer a one piece, there are some interesting designs with cutouts, mixed patterns and prints. This mixing of patterns and cutouts give the perception of a bikini from the back, which is a fun detail. Also, asymmetrical designs with ruching can be extremely figure flattering.

And for bikini lovers, bright, neon colors are hot for the summer. Cute tops with chest straps that wrap around and tie, either in the front or back, are an ideal choice. The high-waisted bottom option with tops that have a puff sleeve are fun with a wrap skirt for a pool-party option.

Whatever option you decide to go with, I hope your summer is as fabulous as your swimsuit.

lifestyle / FOOD

best of

BEST OF PATIOS WE SURVEYED OUR READERS ON THEIR FAVORITE RESTAURANT AND BAR PATIOS. HERE IS A LOOK AT JUST A FEW OF THEIR FAVORITES.

BY MARY GAJDA

LANSING BREWING CO.

ONE NORTH

EL AZTECO

Lansing Brewing Co., in the heart of the Stadium District, was tapped as one our readers’ favs.

The wide-open patio with plenty of space for friends, live entertainment and the Handcrafted Market are among the reasons folks enjoy hanging out on LBC’s patio. The new release of Hammocks and Half Days and beer slushies certainly don’t hurt either. Lansing Brewing Co. is at 518 E. Shiawassee St. in Lansing.

One North Kitchen and Bar in Lansing got plenty of love from our readers.

The scratch kitchen and diverse menu are a big bonus. Located at 5001 W. Saginaw St. in Lansing, One North’s cool vibe and music make it a go-to destination for an afternoon or evening of fun. Sitting with friends in the sun makes it even more pleasant while you enjoy some Tennessee tea and boneless wings.

With two locations, El Azteco’s patio ambiance is popular at both locations.

The west side’s private patio, beautiful flowers, and patio tables and umbrellas let you bask in the fresh air. The east side’s rooftop patio has always been a popular hangout. The topopo is El Azteco’s signature dish, and it goes well with a fiesta margarita to cool you off on a hot summer day.

Visit either location at 225 Ann St. in East Lansing or 1016 W. Saginaw Highway in Lansing.

HONORABLE MENTIONS Zoobies is another popular patio destination, located at 1200 N. Larch St. in Lansing. American Bistro on Showtime Drive in Lansing also got mentions on our social channel polls. The Greater Lansing area is full of outstanding restaurant and bar patios throughout the region from Charlotte to Dimondale, Mason to Williamston and beyond. If we missed yours, chime in next time. Watch for our “best of” polls each month on our Facebook and Instagram pages @517mag. Keep supporting local!

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S P E C I A L A DV E R T I S E M E N T

A CLASSROOM FOR ALL –

ADULT PROFESSIONALS UTILIZE FREE AND REDUCED TUITION AT LANSING’S COLLEGE

BY ANDY BRENT

Learning has become a constant requirement of our daily lives. With each new day, all of us discover new norms we must explore and master in order to thrive. The adjustments our society made to persevere through the COVID-19 pandemic have taught the resilience necessary to adapt, and that adaptation is taking many down new and exciting paths.

For many, this essential adaptation begins with education.

Adults all over Michigan, many of whom had their professional lives upset by COVID-19, are utilizing an educational program called Michigan Reconnect. Administered by the state government, Michigan Reconnect provides tuition so adults aged 25 and older may enroll in Michigan community college degree and professional training programs.

The opportunity for free in-district tuition (with tuition covered up to the in-district equivalent for those attending out-of-district schools) has already generated a groundswell of engagement. Locally, at Lansing Community College (LCC), nearly 400 adult learners have enrolled for summer classes through Michigan Reconnect.

Photography by Kevin Fowler

Creating a welcoming, accessible campus for all has been a priority for LCC Provost Sally Welch.

“LCC works hard to create an atmosphere that is welcoming and inclusive to all that come through our door,” Welch said.

“We work diligently to make sure students are supported both inside the classroom and outside of the classroom. We do this so that obtaining an education is not a barrier.”

The opportunity Michigan Reconnect affords people is real.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the median annual income for workers with an associate degree to be more than $50,000, while the median income for those with only high school-level credentials is less than $37,000 per year.

Though the rewards are attractive, there are challenges for adult learners. According to the Lumina Foundation, 58% of those over age 25 who enroll in college must work to afford their housing, transportation and incidentals while attending school. Twenty six percent of adult learners return to school while raising children. Furthermore, many adult learners can feel overwhelmed by academic tasks after years – or even decades – away from the classroom.

At LCC, adult learners have options and support. As students utilize Michigan Reconnect, LCC has developed resources specific to the requirements of new, adult students in the form of comprehensive refresher courses. Non-credit refresher courses are free, meet entirely online, and are open to LCC students who have not yet demonstrated mastery of math, writing or reading on required placement exams. Refresher courses have been designed by LCC faculty and staff to ready students for the requirements of college-level work in just three online class meetings.

Refresher courses in reading, writing and math begin in July and run through August. All LCC students are eligible to enroll. Students interested in summer refresher courses at LCC should visit lcc.edu/starzone.

Tim Kelley, director of Integrated English at LCC, knows refresher courses can be stabilizing for adults enrolling in college for the first time, or returning to college.

“Many returning students just need a little review before retesting, and that’s exactly what the refreshers provide,” Kelley Said. “We hope Reconnect students will take advantage of our free, 3-day summer reading and writing refreshers to boost placement levels and save themselves time, money and credits.”

Additionally, no cost refresher courses in math are available. Dorothy Tappenden, associate dean of Science and Math at LCC, believes the confidence earned from participation in refresher courses is essential to Michigan Reconnect student’s confidence.

“LCC works hard to create an atmosphere that is welcoming and inclusive to all that come through our door.”

“Reconnect students thrive taking advantage of our free summer math refreshers,” Tappenden said. “Many returning students improve their math skills and confidence in taking a math course after taking our math refresher.”

In addition to robust academic support, adult learners can also make academic use of their prior learning and life experience at LCC. With prior learning credits (PLCs), LCC students are able to receive credit for their work and community involvement, and apply these toward their degree of certificate. PLCs can include knowledge related to an earned license or certificate, business or industry experience or expertise, or military training. In the case of service members and veterans, LCC’s Veterans Services can advise how specific military knowledge and experiences translate to civilian certifications and employment.

Fall registration at LCC is ongoing, and classes begin Aug. 19. Those interested in Michigan Reconnect at LCC should visit lcc.edu/reconnect.

Though daunting, adults in mid-Michigan recognize the value of returning to college. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, individuals with an associate degree or professional certificate will make more than $400,000 more over the course of their professional careers than will those with a high school diploma only. That reality, taken together with the unpresented opportunity for free tuition offered

by Michigan Reconnect and the comprehensive academic support offered at LCC, make real opportunity for all.

lifestyle / JACK DAVIS LEGACY NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITY GREATER LANSING FOOD BANK KEEPS RESIDENTS FROM GOING HUNGRY

BY KYLE DOWLING

Donations to local food banks tend to be more top of mind during the end-of-year season of giving; however, food insecurity doesn’t take a holiday. It’s a year-round issue for far too many residents that has only been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.

For the past 40 years, the Greater Lansing Food Bank has been one of several geographic food banks throughout Michigan providing that compassionate assistance by serving residents in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Isabella, Gratiot, Clare and Shiawassee counties.

“We usually have a drop-off in donations and volunteering a few months after the holidays,” said Michelle Lantz, CEO of the Greater Lansing Food Bank. “So, we have many volunteer opportunities during the summertime that we’d love to fill — and donations are always welcome, whether they be monetary or food.”

The food bank receives millions of pounds of food every year that it distributes to local food pantries, agencies or mobile food distribution services. Much of that food is donated by regional grocery stores like Meijer or Kroger that don’t think they can sell the food to customers for various reasons, such as the packaging promotes the Fourth of July holiday that has passed. The food is perfect, but the

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packaging is not as marketable, so that food gets packed up and sent over to food banks like the Greater Lansing Food Bank to distribute.

“But sometimes we just have to purchase foods that aren’t getting donated,” said Lantz. “And an example of that is with kids, through our kids’ backpack program. We distribute backpacks to children who receive free or reduced lunches from their schools. But that is only during the week, of course. So on weekends, they go hungry. We can get backpacks full of kid-friendly foods that are healthy and easy to eat.”

The Greater Lansing Food Bank also helps with local gardens to grow vegetables and fruits that can be distributed to people in the region. The food bank assists in 110 gardens. And just this year, the food bank moved into a brand-new distribution center off Interstate 69.

“This year, our goal is to distribute 12 million pounds of food,” said Lantz. “And that’s based on the fact that there are more people in our community who are in need of food than what we were able to service before.”

For more information about the Greater Lansing Food Bank or how you can get involved, visit the organization’s website at greaterlansingfoodbank.org.

FEATURE

Cultivating

KINDNESS OKEMOS FLOWER MICROFARM IS IN THE BUSINESS OF BRIGHTENING DAYS

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY PHOTOS BY MARK WARNER

PETAL POSITIVE: JESSIE GILLARD INITIALLY ENVISIONED KINDNESS BLOOMS AS A NEIGHBORHOOD FLOWER STAND. 7.21 | 517

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FEATURE

It’s strange how it always seems to be the delicate and supple things that have the deepest impact on someone’s day.

As the owner of Kindness Blooms, Jessie Gillard knows all too well how the small gesture creates the biggest effect. Since she started the family-owned and -operated flower microfarm at her home in Okemos in 2017, Gillard has come to understand that she doesn’t deal in flowers as much as she does in stories.

“My customers never cease to amaze me. At least 60% of my business is people purchasing flowers for other people,” Gillard said.

“They always tell you, ‘This is for my sister. She’s having a health battle, and this will really brighten her day.’ The stories people tell me about who they give the flowers to are incredible.

“Whether it’s making bouquets for someone to honor a person who has passed, or celebrating a birthday, or making donations to people who are going through cancer treatment or who recently lost someone from cancer, being able to provide just a little bit of light for people in their darkest days — to have them know that someone in the community is supporting them, even if they don’t know them — is the best part,” she added. “If I can make a part of someone’s day better, that’s the best part for me.”

Kindness Blooms grows seasonal flowers using sustainable practices. The business provides flowers for events such as weddings, parties and graduations; however, it primarily provides cut flower bouquets at the Meridian Township Farmers Market and through full- and partial-season subscriptions that customers can pick up or have delivered throughout the growing season from June to September.

“With the exception of a few perennials that have been gifted to us or that I’ve picked up over the years, we grow everything from seed in our basement starting in late February. Then, weather permitting, we transfer everything outside,” Gillard said.

“Once we have the last frost of the year, we put everything out into the yard. We farm on just about a quarter acre right at our home, and we use succession planting and compact planting methods to get more production out of a small area. That’s where the microfarm designation comes from: using less land to produce more of a crop.”

The idea for Kindness Blooms came a bit out of necessity. When Gillard and her husband moved to Okemos, their new house abutted a wooded area.

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“We kept getting an encroachment of weeds where some trees had been taken down — like 6-foot-tall weeds, jungle weeds,” Gillard said.

“I don’t like to use chemicals, so I knew I had to plant something there to draw the line between us and the forest.”

She had heard about the concept of microfarming and began learning everything she could about it. The sustainability website Hello Homestead defines microfarming as small-scale, high-yield, sustainableminded farming, generally conducted by hand in urban or suburban areas.

Growing up in northern Michigan, where roadside stands with fruits or vegetables at the end of someone’s driveway were everyday occurrences, Gillard initially pictured Kindness Blooms as a neighborhood flower stand.

“Even when we were thinking about just a flower stand, our idea was to meet more people and get to know more people and build a sense of community, at least in our neighborhood. It’s grown into more than we ever expected,” Gillard said. “We have just been floored at how many more people we have met, and the customers that have become friends, and the people who seek us out. People stop by the farmers market not just for the flowers but to chat with us. It’s just been so cool to use social media and build up this network of community.”

The other inspiration to start Kindness Blooms for Gillard was just being able to spend time with her hands in the dirt: “There is just something therapeutic about being outside busy growing things that keeps my head above water most days.”

Her children, on the other hand, may have a slightly different opinion about it.

“We have four kids, and they live more of a suburban lifestyle.

They’re not as akin to manual labor as I would say we were growing up. I also wanted them to get their hands in the dirt and have some responsibilities and chores related to the farm, which they do. They’re still not happy about it four years in,” said laughed. “But they have some sweat equity in the farm as well, which has been a good experience for them — from my perspective, not theirs.”

Plus, the vast majority of the profits from the seasonal business go directly into college funds.

“Having four kids is not cheap,” Gillard said. “You always have to have a side hustle, and this is a good one to have.”

Visit Kindness Blooms at kindnessblooms.square.site/.

FLOWER POWER: JESSIE GILLARD, WITH DAUGHTER PEARL, SAID THE BEST PART OF RUNNING A FLOWER MICROFARM IS KNOWING THAT HER PRODUCT IS GOING TO MAKE SOMEONE’S DAY BRIGHTER.

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Your education for an equitable future.

Fall semester begins August 19.

You belong here lcc.edu/youbelong

Lansing Community College is an equal opportunity Educational institution/employer.

YOUR LAND YOUR LEGACY Making long-term plans for your farm’s future is always wise given the importance of real estate to both your operations and your family, and this is particularly important in 2021 with expected tax changes on the horizon.

Whether you plan to pass farming operations on to the next generation or you’re seeking only to keep the land in the family, tax strategies such as estate planning can help you achieve your financial and personal goals.

At Rehmann, we look at the whole picture and have the insight to provide what’s best for you and your operation so you can be confident in your financial future.

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play REASONS TO PLAY p.46

NOT A BAAAAD IDEA The Delhi Township Wastewater Treatment Plant has a flock of around 30 sheep. The sheep help to maintain the grounds around the facility and reduce the need for mowing. This sheep flock is guarded, not by a dog, but by a llama named Firebird.

The Delhi Township sheep also produce a lot of wool. To keep the sheep healthy, they are sheared and the wool is collected and sent to Frankenmuth to be made into assorted products. If you’d like to purchase some of these local wool products, they are available through the Public Services Maintenance Department on Aurelius Road in Holt. Visit delhitownshipmi.gov/354/Delhi-Sheep for more information.

7.21 | 517

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play / REASONS TO PLAY

Take Part in the Art ARTPATH Through Aug. 21 The Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center presents ArtPath for summer 2021. ArtPath, along 3 miles of the Lansing River Trail from REO Town to Old Town, showcases pieces by Michigan artists whose work tells unique stories. ArtPath will include 20 art installations, artist talks and family-friendly art activities. See the exhibit on display through Aug. 21.

Visit lansingartgallery.org/artpath/ for a map and more information.

THIS MONTH’S EVENTS Editor’s note: Please call event venues directly to make sure times and dates haven’t changed due to cancellations and postponements related to COVID-19.

MMAG Spring Art Show Through July 8 The Mid-Michigan Art Guild Spring Art Show features new work by member artists in an array of media. The exhibition is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays until July 8 at the Neighborhood Empowerment Center, 600 W. Maple St. in Lansing. Social distancing and masks are required.

Visit midmichiganartguild.org for details.

FrankenFest July 10 Abnormal art and monstrous creations are brought to life from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the TurnerDodge House and Heritage Center, 100 E. North St. in Lansing. FrankenFest is a new festival showcasing mad, magical and mystical artwork and exhibits from the area’s most intriguing

vendors. Literary guests, haunt aficionados and paranormal experts come to this unique oneday event. There is no cost to attend, and all are welcome. Visit frankenfest.com for details.

The Extra Inning at Capital City Market July 18 Get ready for Capital City Market Kids’ Days this summer at Jackson Field. After you’ve helped cheer the Lansing Lugnuts to victory, take a walk across the street to the Capital City Market, 600 E. Michigan Ave. in Lansing for an “extra inning” of fun from 4-6 p.m. July 18. All of the Above Hip Hop Academy will provide the DJ, and a Kids’ Day treat will be available. Word on the street is that Big Lug may even stop by.

To purchase tickets to attend the game, visit the Lansing Lugnuts website at milb.com/lansing.

Follow our friends at 517living.com for other upcoming events in the region.

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Car Capital Auto Show July 24 Come visit the Car Capital Auto Show on the campus of the Michigan Library and History Center, 702 W. Kalamazoo St. in Lansing. The show is put on by the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum, and Astera Credit Union is the title sponsor. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

July 24. Visit carcapitalautoshow. org for details.

Entrepreneurial Awards Viewing Party Sept. 29 A viewing party for the televised broadcast of the 2021 Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards is set for Sept. 29 at Jackson Field in Lansing. Tickets for the event will be on sale soon. Visit greaterlansingawards.com for details and updates.

Advertorial

Meet Andy Provenzano of WILX Catch Andy on Studio 10 followed by the 5, 5:30, 6 and 11pm WILX newscasts.

Q. What is the biggest challenge of giving the forecast in Mid-Michigan?

A. I go into forecasting already knowing that we can’t get each forecast completely right. Mother Nature has and always will have the upper hand. Our area covers many miles, so often the forecast can be so different from north to south or west to east. This becomes obvious when forecasting snowfall.

Q. What’s something a viewer wouldn’t know about being a meteorologist?

A. Being a Meteorologist means that you have studied many different sciences including geography, geology, chemistry, physics, earth science and mathematics. All of those have some role in understanding how weather happens.

When I talk to elementary kids, I tell them that I take a test every day. It is the

same question too: “What is happening in the weather tomorrow?” When I wake up, I know if I passed or failed.

Q. What are some of your favorite things to do in the area?

A. You can find me out and about almost every weekend. Love the farmers markets, the football games at Spartan Stadium, the outdoor patios, catch an outdoor concert in all our great small towns and you might find me in an antique store or two.

Q. What would you like the readers to know?

A. I would hope readers know that I do each one of my weather forecasts with them in mind. What might be in their day or weekend that the forecast is very important; an open house, wedding, golf night, headed north, picking up the kids from basketball practice, etc.

B U S I N E S S

A N D

L I F E

PODCASTS ARE ONLINE! Visit Spotify and search 517 Business and Life to listen to any of our weekly podcasts.

Want to sponsor a podcast?

Reach out to us at info@517mag.com!

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BUILDING COMMUNITY AND A HEALTHY FUTURE THROUGH AGRICULTURE

By Carrie Rosingana, CEO of Capital Area Michigan Works!

Just miles east from the urban hub of downtown Lansing, we have the one of the biggest agriculture universities in the country and a thriving agricultural community just to the north of us — Clinton County.

Agriculture does more than nourish communities, it drives innovation and development and employs thousands of individuals in our region.

Further, the industry is expected to grow by about 2% in the in the next decade (Michigan Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives).

To further understand the impact agriculture has on individuals and our region, I connected with David Pohl — a landowner in Clinton County for more than 45 years. He rents his land out to farmers and agriculture workers who grow corn, soy and occasionally wheat.

“My favorite part is watching individuals manage and operate the farms and watching the crop grow,” said Pohl. “I trust their management to take good care of the farms in an economic and environmentallyfriendly way.”

Pohl occasionally participates in maintaining the farms by helping keep brush down and keeping stones out of the fields.

“I view land as one of our natural resources — like we do water and air. We’ve made a lot of strides to keeping our water and air clean,” said Pohl. “Land can be a lot harder to rejuvenate if it is abused.

Keeping our land clean and protected is a priority to meet our needs now and in the future.”

Pohl grew up near his current home in Fowler, Michigan. Even though he’s a landowner, he spends much of his time working for his community. After serving in the military, Peace Corps, and

graduating from Michigan State University with his B.S. Animal Science he came home to farm and eventually served in Dallas Township’s government, then later in Clinton County’s government as the District Two Commissioner.

“Taking the time to keep our area safe, sound and running smoothly is part of living in a community. And serving on the township government and now county Board of Commissioners is my contribution,” said Pohl.

In addition to his role as commissioner, Pohl also sits on Capital Area Michigan Works!’s Workforce Development and T3 boards, Lansing Economic Area Partnership Ag Advisory Committee, Parks & Green Space Commission and more.

Agriculture and the work of farmers is integral to our region’s community and economy. As Pohl mentioned, agriculture and the use of our land has the potential to affect food quality and access for generations to come. And the process isn’t limited to field work — the industry relies on engineers, inspectors, scientists and technicians to maintain efficient processes and prosperous land. Learn more about a potential career in agriculture on Career One Stop or by contacting us at CAMW!.

Carrie Rosingana is the CEO of Capital Area Michigan Works!. Visit camw.org for assistance with career exploration or staffing needs. CAMW!, a proud partner of the American Job Center Network, offers services in Ingham, Clinton and Eaton counties at our Lansing, St. Johns and Charlotte American Job Centers.

LIKE A LOCAL

SUPPORT LOCAL PARKS AND GARDENS Dozens of attractions are open and ready to serve you safely and responsibly! They’ve taken the Greater Lansing Safe Pledge for your health and well-being. From museums and science centers to arts and outdoor activities, you’ll discover adventures for all ages right in your own backyard! Support local.

Plan your summer staycation at lansing.org/lovelansing GREATER LANSING CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU  Lansing.org

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Roatary Park © James Lenon

W WRAP UP P PRODUCE ANATOMY Fruits and Veggies to Benefit Your Body

BY SHELBY SMITH Not only do fruits and vegetables fuel your body with vitamins and minerals, they also promote good health and even some healing qualities that you may not know. Here’s a look at a few of the more popular attributes they provide.

See Longer

While they may not give you super sight, carrots contain key vitamins and antioxidants that can help combat vision loss with age.

Eating carrots helps boost blood flow to the eye, increasing function and keeping cataracts at bay.

Smile Bigger

Bananas may have won your favor with the protein tryptophan, which becomes serotonin once digested. Serotonin is a vital chemical for mood regulation in the brain, and lack of it is a leading contributor to depression.

Settle Your Stomach

The use of ginger to treat an upset stomach is a home remedy nearly as old as history itself. Ginger root, which often resembles your stomach’s shape, includes the component gingerol, which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for preventing nausea and vomiting.

Be Stronger

Forget milk. A stalk of celery will do your bones better. Celery contains calcium, manganese, magnesium and phosphorus, which work together to support bone density and health as well as combat chronic bone diseases such as osteoporosis.

Beat Better

Tomatoes are a heaven for heart-healthy nutrients including lycopene, potassium, vitamin C and more. Lycopene has been proven to combat high cholesterol and heart disease, which is less present in women with high levels of it in their blood.

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Pam Posthumus The Children’s Trust Fund is Michigan’s only independent, statewide, nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Serving as a voice for Michigan’s children and families; we lead the way to better health, safety and well-being by funding effective community-based programs.

S i g n at u r e A u c t i o n E v e n t 19Th Annual

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